Welcome to "Stay Strong" - a site devoted to sharing and inspiring "Strength" in others and in ourselves! Strength of Spirit, Strength of Mind, Strength of Soul and Strength of Body! PLEASE pass this site onto others in need of Strength and Inspiration!

Thursday, December 29, 2016

Today's reading from St. Paul, writing to the Phillipians while shackled and imprisoned in some God-forsaken place, with martyrdom imminent and rapidly approaching, is a short excerpt but chock full of valuable lessons and insights for us all to this day.

St. Paul had indeed been a very wealthy man of abundance yet for his love of Jesus Christ he chose instead poverty and eventually death- he chose to focus on and enrich the only "account" that matters at the end of the day.

It is inspirational and almost unimaginable to try to understand the depth and strength of his FAITH and TRUST in the Lord.

His attitude and unwavering love and belief in the Lord- while facing inevitable and painful DEATH - is something I for one struggle to comprehend and try to recall when some small little challenge presents itself in my life.

Not so easy, granted - but attainable!

Enjoy the Beautiful Weekend and Stay Strong!

"Brothers and sisters: I rejoice greatly in the Lord that now at last you revived your concern for me.

You were, of course, concerned about me but lacked an opportunity.

Not that I say this because of need, for I have learned, in whatever situation I find myself, to be self-sufficient.

I know indeed how to live in humble circumstances;

I know also how to live with abundance.

In every circumstance and in all thingsI have learned the secret of being well fed and of going hungry, of living in abundance and of being in need.

I have the strength for everything through him who empowers me.

Still, it was kind of you to share in my distress.

You Philippians indeed know that at the beginning of the Gospel, when I left Macedonia, not a single church shared with me in an account of giving and receiving, except you alone.

For even when I was at Thessalonicayou sent me something for my needs,not only once but more than once.

It is not that I am eager for the gift;rather, I am eager for the profit that accrues to YOUR account.

I have received full payment and I abound.

I am very well supplied because of what I received from you through Epaphroditus,"a fragrant aroma," an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God.

My God will fully supply whatever you need,in accord with his glorious riches in Christ Jesus."

Tuesday, December 27, 2016

"The LORD looks down from heaven on the sons of men to see if there are any who understand, any who seek God."

PSALM 14: 2

A dear friend describes some pretty significant testing.

She said in less than twelve months, she'd seen her health fail, her property damaged, a close friendship threatened —all while her workload at the office escalated.

Her story illustrates how life-shaking experiences can prepare us for a fresh encounter with God.

For my friend, it was a year that triggered a personal revival.

Sometimes only adversity can accomplish that kind of revival.

The Old Testament prophet Ezekiel related that as a captive to King Nebuchadnezzar, "I looked, and I saw a windstorm …an immense cloud with flashing lightning and surrounded by brilliant light"(Ezekiel 1: 4).

But on the wings of that storm, God brought Ezekiel an important message, a wake-up call to a fresh vision of Jesus.

"The LORD looks down from heaven on the sons of men to see if there are any who understand, any who seek God."

-- PSALM 14: 2

A dear friend describes some pretty significant testing.

She said in less than twelve months, she'd seen her health fail, her property damaged, a close friendship threatened —all while her workload at the office escalated.

Her story illustrates how life-shaking experiences can prepare us for a fresh encounter with God.

For my friend, it was a year that triggered a personal revival.

Sometimes only adversity can accomplish that kind of revival.

The Old Testament prophet Ezekiel related that as a captive to King Nebuchadnezzar, "I looked, and I saw a windstorm …an immense cloud with flashing lightning and surrounded by brilliant light"(Ezekiel 1: 4).

But on the wings of that storm, God brought Ezekiel an important message, a wake-up call to a fresh vision of Jesus.

Thursday, December 22, 2016

I apologize in advance for the length of this post but I truly hope you can soldier through it (and if not perhaps you can table it for when you have a few extra minutes) as I believe it carries a powerful message that will truly resonate strongly with a lot of us as we navigate this journey of life on earth!

Stay Strong, Trust and Enjoy! :)

"Bouncing across raging seas, bent to our knees and clinging for safety, is where we learn to pray.

Ask Noah, adrift on the swells of the diluvian sea.

Ask Jonah, tossed about on the Mediterranean.

Ask the disciples, taking on water on the Sea of Galilee.

Ask Paul, weathering perilous storms on voyage after voyage.

The storm you're facing may be financial, when you find yourself caught up in a Category 4 hurricane that sweeps over the economy like Katrina over the Gulf Coast.

Wednesday, December 21, 2016

Today's Gospel reading from Luke 1 is the story of the Visitation, when Mary went to visit her cousin, Elizabeth, who herself was pregnant with John the Baptist.

"Elizabeth, filled with the Holy Spirit, cried out in a loud voice and said, 'Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb." Does this sound familiar? If you are a Catholic, it should. The words of Elizabeth are ones that we quote in the Hail Mary prayer. This isn't something that the Church made up. Surprise! Catholics really can quote Scripture!

We see today how honored Elizabeth was to have "the mother of my Lord" visit her. Elizabeth welcomed Mary into her home. A wonderful lesson for us. As we welcome Jesus into our homes and our hearts, we should also should be honored to welcome in His Mother.

Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death.

We should then, as St. Stanislaus always did, ask Mary's blessing as our mother; place ourselves under the mantle of her protection; and beg her to guard us during the coming day or night from evil and,sin.

For this purpose it's advisable to have a beautiful image of the Blessed Virgin.

Second, we can say the Angelus, with the usual three Hail Marys, in the morning, at midday, and in the evening.

Third, we can greet the Mother of God with a Hail Mary every hour on the hour.

Fourth, whenever we go out of the house or return, we can greet the Blessed Virgin with a Hail Mary. That way, whether we are indoors or outdoors, she will guard us from all evil, dangers and sin.

Fifth, we should honor every image of Mary that we pass with a Hail Mary.

For this purpose, those who can would do well to place a beautiful image of the Blessed Virgin on an outside wall of their houses, so that it may be venerated by those who pass by.

Sixth, we would do well to begin and end all our actions with a Hail Mary. They may be spiritual actions—prayer, Confession, Communion, spiritual reading, hearing sermons—or temporal, such as study, giving advice, working, or sitting down for a meal.

Happy are those actions that are enclosed between two Hail Marys.

Finally, we should say a Hail Mary in every temptation, in every danger, and in every inclination to anger.

Do this, and you'll see the immense advantage it brings.

—St. Alphonsus Liguori, The Glories of Mary

CLOSING PRAYER

From the Angelus:

"The angel of the Lord declared unto Mary, and she conceived by the Holy Spirit. Hail, Mary . . ."

"Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed."(1 Peter 4:12–13, NIV)

Don't Be Surprised

If you know you are going into a challenging season, you can get prepared for it.

You can make sure you are mentally ready.

But what about the difficulties that we don't see coming?

The unexpected crisis that catches you off-guard?

Sometimes, it can seem so overwhelming that it almost knocks the wind right out of you.

The scripture says that we shouldn't be surprised by fiery trials.

That's because the forces of darkness would not be fighting against you if they didn't know that God has something amazing in your future!

Sometimes, those unexpected difficulties are just a sign that you're on the right track.

It's always darkest just before the dawn appears.

The enemy always fights the hardest when you are closest to your breakthrough.

The key is to stay the course and keep fighting the good fight of faith.

You will defeat every enemy, and you will embrace the blessing and victory He has in store for you!

A Prayer for Today"Father, thank You for walking with me in every season of life. Today, I cast all of my cares on You. I cast all of my difficulties, all of my questions, and all of my concerns. Thank You for working all things out for my good in Jesus' name.

Monday, December 19, 2016

Happy Monday All!! Enjoy this amazing week run up to Christmas and try to stay warm - and Joyful! :)

Stay Strong!

"But at midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them."

--- Acts 16:25

Our joy as a Christian should not depend on our circumstances.

Joy comes from God, and therefore it cannot be affected by what is outside of you.

Don't be fooled into letting the actions of others determine your joy.

True joy comes from knowing that God Himself lives within you and has fellowship with you, regardless of your environment.

Real joy lies in the knowledge that holy God has completely forgiven you of every sin, and even now, He has a home prepared in heaven where you can spend eternity with Him (John 14:3).

The circumstances of your life cannot change these truths!

Paul and Silas faced some of the most difficult circumstances imaginable.

They were falsely accused, arrested, and imprisoned. .

They were beaten and shackled in the darkest, coldest section of the prison.

But they refused to allow their horrific situation to dampen their joy!

They did not blame God for allowing these things to happen to them.

Instead, they praised Him for His goodness!

In the darkness of the night, they prayed and they sang.

God brought a miracle that released them from their chains, but perhaps the greater miracle was that His Holy Spirit could so fill them that even in their painful imprisonment they could overflow with joy!

Do not allow difficult events to cancel the joy of knowing you are a child of God!

Choose to allow God's Spirit to fill you with His unquenchable joy, and your life will be a miracle to those who watch you face the trials that come."

Friday, December 9, 2016

"Faith is the confidence that what we hope for will actually happen; it gives us assurance about things we cannot see." (Hebrews 11:1, NLT)

Give Your Faith a Target

So many people today are depressed and discouraged simply because they only focus on their present circumstances.

They're constantly dwelling on their problems, what they don't have, and what's wrong with them.

They don't realize it, but they're allowing the enemy to steal their hope.

This negative frame of mind is what keeps people from moving forward in life.

Understand today that faith is confidence and assurance about the things we hope for according to the promises of God.

Like an arrow, your faith points to the target of hope.

If you don't have hope, that arrow of faith will just drop to the ground.

It won't accomplish anything.

But when you keep your hopes up, when you keep expecting and believing, it's as if that target gets larger and larger—easier to hit!

Choose today to live with an attitude of expectancy.

Get your hopes up!

Start by taking captive any negative thoughts you may have one at a time.

As you focus on God's goodness and faithfulness, you'll feel that hope inside you growing.

You'll give your faith a target, and you'll move confidently into the blessings and peace the Lord has in store for you!

A Prayer for Today "Father, today I surrender every thought to You. I choose to release my cares and concerns so I can focus on Your goodness in my life. Thank You for the gift of faith to see the impossible become possible as I continue to place my hope and confidence in You in Jesus' name, Amen.

Thursday, December 8, 2016

Today we celebrate the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception! :) Say a Hail Mary or 50 if you get a moment! :)

"No matter how God answers this prayer, one thing is certain:

He will speed up the process of healing and make sure you get through your ordeal with as little emotional, psychological, and spiritual damage as possible.

And this guarantee doesn't apply to only the great cataclysmic misfortunes of life.

It works for the smaller "slings and arrows" of daily living as well.

You shouldn't wait for heart attacks or terminal illnesses or car accidents to ask for God's assistance.

You should say this prayer when you have a toothache; you should say this prayer when your annoying colleague at work won't stop talking to you; you should say this prayer when you're stuck in a traffic jam!

Tuesday, December 6, 2016

"By his divine power, God has given us everything we need for living a godly life. We have received all of this by coming to know him, the one who called us to himself by means of his marvelous glory and excellence." (2 Peter 1:3 NLT)

By His Divine Power

Whether you realize it or not, God has already given you everything you need to live the life He's called you to.

You don't need to feel stressed out, worried or afraid.

You don't have to wonder if you're "good enough" to receive from God because God's blessing has nothing to do with your performance.

He has already blessed you and given you everything you need by His divine power!

The world's system tells us to strive, toil and scrape to get what we want.

Our culture puts limits on people because of their natural abilities, resources, background or circumstances.

But with God, there are no limits!

By His divine power, you are equipped, well able and STRONG!

You are covered by His grace and mercy, and you are empowered to do all He has called you to do!

The next time you start thinking "I can't..." or "I don't have what it takes...," attack those negative thoughts with the truth by declaring:

"I have what it takes; I am well able; and I am equipped by His divine power at work in me!"

A Prayer for Today "Father, thank You for Your power which is at work in me. Thank You for equipping me and calling me according to Your good purpose. Give me Your strength and peace today. I keep my mind stayed on You in Jesus' name. Amen."

Monday, December 5, 2016

"This life is nothing but warfare and a series of temptations; we do not have to contend with enemies of flesh and blood but with the very powers of Hell.

What better weapons could we possibly use to combat them than the Prayer which our great Captain taught us (Our Father), and the Angelic Salutation (Hail Mary) which has chased away devils, destroyed sin and renewed the world?

What better weapon could we use than meditation on the life and passion of Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ?

For, as Saint Peter says, it is with this thought we must arm ourselves in order to defend ourselves against the very same enemies which he conquered and which molest us every day."

"Ever since the devil was crushed by the humility and passion of Jesus Christ he has been very nearly unable to attack a soul that is armed with meditation on the mysteries of Our Lord's life, and, if he does trouble such a soul, he is sure to be shamefully defeated." (Cardinal Hughes.)

"Put you on the armor of God."

So arm yourselves with the arms of God—with the Holy Rosary—and you will crush the devil's head and you will stand firm in the face of all his temptations.

This is why even the material rosary itself is such a terrible thing for the devil, and why the Saints have used it to enchain devils and to chase them out of the bodies of people who were possessed.

Wednesday, November 23, 2016

"Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers." (3 John 1:2, NKJV)

It's Time to Thrive

Many people today are living in "survival mode."

If they can just make it through the day, they've accomplished their goal.

And, there are times when circumstances can seem overwhelming.

There are seasons that are more difficult than others.

But God doesn't want us to just survive, He wants us to thrive.

He wants us to prosper in all things.

One definition of the word "thrive" means "to realize a goal despite circumstances."

That means you can prosper in all things no matter what is going on around you.

You don't have to settle for an average year; you can have an extraordinary year.

You may be planning on just getting by, but God is planning on abundance.

He's planning on overflow.

It's time to get into agreement with God.

It's time to walk in His ways.

It's time see your dreams come to pass.

It's time to thrive because God has a plan for you to prosper in every area of your life!

A Prayer for Today "Father, thank You for the gift of today. I choose to cast my cares on You knowing that You care about me and for me. Help me to see the good plan You have for me so that I can thrive the way You intended in Jesus' name. Amen."

Monday, November 21, 2016

The important thing is how you wait: in a resigned, impatient way or in hope—keeping your focus on Me.

One aspect of hope is confident expectation.

When your overarching hope is for Me, you have every reason to be confident.

I have promised to be with you always, even to the end of the age.

Moreover, at the end of time, I am coming back in glorious Power to judge the world and establish My kingdom.

While you are waiting, remember that I am your Help and your Shield.

My unfailing Love guarantees that I am always available to help you.

You access this loving help through your trust in Me.

No matter what is happening or how bad you feel, voice your trust in Me!

I have shielded you from many hardships, and I will continue to protect you.

So put your hope fully in Me, and the Light of My Presence will shine into your waiting times.

From "Jesus Today"

Stay Strong!

"We wait in hope for the LORD; he is our help and our shield." —Psalm 33: 20

"And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, "All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age." —Matthew 28: 18–20 NKJV

"But I am like an olive tree flourishing in the house of God; I trust in God's unfailing love for ever and ever." —Psalm 52: 8

Monday, November 14, 2016

"I AM THE LIGHT THAT SHINES ON IN THE darkness, for the darkness has never overpowered it—and it never will!

When multiple problems are closing in on you, the Light of My Presence may seem like a dim memory.

If you are feeling distant from Me, it's time for you to stop everything and pour out your heart to Me.

Carve out some time and space to talk with Me about your problems and your feelings.

Let Me help you carry your burdens and show you the way forward.

No matter how much darkness you see in the world around you, My Light continues to shine on, for it is infinitely more powerful!

Because you are My child, this Light shines not only upon you but also within you.

You live in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, and this is the perfect backdrop for you to shine as light in the world.

Take time to bask in My radiant Presence.

Let My boundless energy recharge your strength so you can blaze boldly in the darkness around you."

- From "Jesus Today " by Sarah Young

Stay Strong!

"The Light shines on in the darkness, for the darkness has never overpowered it, put it out or absorbed it or appropriated it, and is unreceptive to it." —John 1: 5 AMP

"Trust in him at all times, O people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge." —Psalm 62:

"Do all things without complaining and disputing, that you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world." —Philippians 2: 14–15 NKJV

Friday, November 11, 2016

"The Lord is my Strength and my song; he has given me Victory." (Psalm 118:14, NLT)

"Do you need more joy, victory and confidence in your life today?

You might need to evaluate what you are thinking about on a daily basis.

If you go around thinking things like, "I'm just average," "I've already reached my limits," or "I've missed so many good opportunities," then those thoughts are going to drag you down and hold you back.

Instead, every morning when you wake up, start your day with thoughts of HOPE and SUCCESS!

Determine to be Victory-minded!

The Bible tells us that what we think about, we WILL become.

When you think thoughts of success, victory, joy and peace, your life will be filled with success, victory, joy and peace!

It doesn't matter what's going on around you when the greater One lives in you!

You are an OVERCOMER through Christ.

Today, set your mind on victory and move forward into the victory He has for you!"

A PRAYER FOR TODAY Father, thank You for the gift of another day! I choose to be victory-minded and focus on Your goodness. Help me, Holy Spirit, to stay focused on the blessings and favor You have for me in Jesus' name! Amen.

Saturday, November 5, 2016

Today's reading from St. Paul, writing to the Phillipians while shackled and imprisoned in some God-forsaken place, with martyrdom imminent and rapidly approaching, is a short excerpt but chock full of valuable lessons and insights for us all to this day.

St. Paul had indeed been a very wealthy man of abundance yet for his love of Jesus Christ he chose instead poverty and eventually death- he chose to focus on and enrich the only "account" that matters at the end of the day.

It is inspirational and almost unimaginable to try to understand the depth and strength of his FAITH and TRUST in the Lord.

His attitude and unwavering love and belief in the Lord- while facing inevitable and painful DEATH - is something I for one struggle to comprehend and try to recall when some small little challenge presents itself in my life.

Not so easy, granted - but attainable!

Enjoy the Beautiful Weekend and Stay Strong!

"Brothers and sisters: I rejoice greatly in the Lord that now at last you revived your concern for me.

You were, of course, concerned about me but lacked an opportunity.

Not that I say this because of need, for I have learned, in whatever situation I find myself, to be self-sufficient.

I know indeed how to live in humble circumstances;

I know also how to live with abundance.

In every circumstance and in all things I have learned the secret of being well fed and of going hungry, of living in abundance and of being in need.

I have the strength for everything through him who empowers me.

Still, it was kind of you to share in my distress.

You Philippians indeed know that at the beginning of the Gospel, when I left Macedonia, not a single church shared with me in an account of giving and receiving, except you alone.

For even when I was at Thessalonica you sent me something for my needs, not only once but more than once.

It is not that I am eager for the gift; rather, I am eager for the profit that accrues to YOUR account.

I have received full payment and I abound.

I am very well supplied because of what I received from you through Epaphroditus, "a fragrant aroma," an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God.

My God will fully supply whatever you need, in accord with his glorious riches in Christ Jesus."

Friday, November 4, 2016

God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble." (Psalm 46:1, NIV)

In the Day of Trouble

God is always present with you.

That means at ALL times, continually, perpetually, throughout all time,

God is with you.

In your day of trouble, He is there to help you.

How is He your help?

By providing whatever you need; by opening doors for you; by orchestrating things in your favor.

"Help" is specific to your need and we serve a God who is very specific.

Because He is always with you, He always knows exactly what you need!

Today, are you facing trouble or adversity?

Know that God is with you.

Look to Him for help.

Trust that He has the answer, and that He is working things out in your favor.

As you continue to believe Him and follow His direction, He will lead you in the way that you should go.

He will comfort you, revive you, restore you and bless you!

He will be your ever-present help because He is forever faithful to His Word!

A Prayer for Today "Father, thank You for being my ever-present help. I trust today that You are with me, that You are comforting me and restoring my soul. I lift my eyes to You this day. Help me to follow Your commands and honor You as You direct my steps. In Jesus' Name. Amen."

Tuesday, November 1, 2016

In the second chapter of Mark, we read about four vision-filled friends who had a huge expectation.

They thought that if they could get their sick buddy to Jesus,

He could make something impossible happen.

Their expectations rose so high, they grabbed their friend, carried him to the house where Jesus was teaching, and when they realized the crowd was too thick to get through, sawed a hole in the roof of the home and lowered their friend down to Jesus.

Their expectation led to action and to a miracle when Jesus completely healed their friend.

The story of these four guys suggests to me that if your expectations are high enough, it's even possible to trigger a miracle.

They didn't cause a miracle.

That's God's job.

However, their expectations led to actions that triggered God doing a miracle.

Why would you want to live any other way, when you know your actions can trigger a miracle in your life and in the lives of others around you?

On the other hand, I believe the most depressing, debilitating acronym ever is TWNC:

Things Will Never Change.

This toxic, dangerous thought process has the power to destroy your marriage, friendships, and career.

These four words, Things Will Never Change, replace confidence with cynicism.

These four words, Things Will Never Change, replace high hopes with depression and despair.

These four words, Things Will Never Change, blind people to the possibility that God might have better days ahead.

These four words, Things Will Never Change, are so powerful they can handcuff the hands of God.

Jesus didn't do any miracles in His hometown of Nazareth.

Why?

The Bible says, "because of their unbelief"(Matthew 13: 58 NKJV).

We've become less like Steve Jobs and more like most car companies.

Have you ever seen a concept car unveiled at an auto show? They rock!

But when you see what comes out five years later, you say, "That reeks."

How did they snatch defeat from the jaws of victory?

What typically happens is that the engineers say this is impossible and the finance people say that is impossible, and by the time they're done, they've created a goofy car that nobody wants.

Start believing impossible things are possible, because you ARE going to get what you expect!

Saturday, October 29, 2016

"I want to ask you one question that has the power to change the rest of your life.

This one question is so important it should be the primary question asked by every parent of every teenager.

This question is so important it should be the primary question asked by a spouse discouraged by his or her marriage.

This question is so important it should be asked by anyone currently feeling discouraged about themselves.

This question is so important it should be the first question asked by people who want to change their lives, lose weight, get out of debt, or have a better future.

This question has the power to lift a person out of discouragement.

It has the power to transform somebody's mood.

It has the power to turn around a company or a church or a family.

This question is actually more than a question.

It becomes a frame of reference for how you look at everything.

When this question moves from being a question to being a habit, to being your lifestyle, everybody you know will be affected.

A person trained to ask this question becomes •someone people flock to for advice and encouragement, •the parent everybody wishes they had, •the spouse everybody wishes they were married to, •the friend everybody wishes they knew, and •a better person, a better coach, a better teacher, a better employee, a better leader.

This question is the reason Peter went from being a complete failure to being one of the first great leaders of the Christian church.

I believe this question was uppermost in Jesus'mind every time He looked at His disciples.

Here is the question:

......

'What can this become? "

We learn this from Jesus.

Jesus tipped His hand when He looked at some young, inexperienced men and made an astounding statement:

"Follow Me, and I will make you become fishers of men"(Mark 1: 17 NASB).

None of the disciples was a first-round draft pick.

They were a mess.

Peter had his mouth always open, his foot always in it.

Thomas met every plan with, "I doubt it."

St. John the Divine? That same John and his brother James were called the "Sons of Thunder."

Matthew was a selfish tax collector.

As a group, they were always arguing about who was greatest.

The only thing they seemed to do right was "borrow"a kid's lunch one day so Jesus could feed five thousand people.

What made Jesus so effective?

What made Him the single most magnetic leader ever to walk this planet?

What was it about Jesus that liberated people from their pasts and freed them to go on to become something they never dreamed?

Here it is:

Jesus was not focused on what people were like. He was focused on WHAT THEY COULD BECOME.

Show me a parent of a teenager who is focused on what their kid is like right now, and I'll show you a discouraged parent.

Show me a parent who is focused on what his or her teenager can become, and anything is possible.

Show me a husband or wife focused on what his or her marriage is like right now, and usually I can show you a discouraged person.

Show me a couple focused on what their marriage can become, and anything is possible.

Show me Christians focused on what their spiritual lives are like right now.

In all likelihood they will be discouraged, but the minute they begin to focus on what their relationship with God could become, anything is possible.

Show me a person who wishes he was in better shape physically but is focused on what his life is like right now, and he is probably discouraged.

Yet all kinds of possibilities emerge the minute he focuses on what he could become in the future.

Everything changes when we ask the question, "Am I able to see things not as they are right now but in terms of what they can become?"

"I will make you become fishers of men,"Jesus said, and by following through on His word, He changed, is changing, and will change the world.

Friday, October 28, 2016

• "I tell you the truth, anyone who has faith in me will do what I have been doing. He will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father"(John 14: 12).

•"If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer"(Matthew 21: 22).

Whipped by the winds and waves, the very last thing many of us can do in our darkness and despair is to save ourselves.

Weary and without strength, we simply cannot hoist ourselves to safety.

But in the swirling chaos of our thoughts and fears, when we can no longer stay afloat, some of us are grasped by fellow sojourn ears who have somehow made it to solid ground.

When passengers fled the doomed Titanic in lifeboats, some were able to reach across the icy waters and throw a lifeline to other passengers who were desperate and foundering.

Working together, they would pull a victim into the safety of the boat, provide a blanket or simply the heat of their own bodies.

Once rescued, one could help to rescue another.

In this manner, many have received calm in the storms that threaten to overwhelm.

In the faces of friends, or even strangers, they have recognized the palpable presence of God.

Someone has lent a listening ear, has reached out with arms of love, bearing God's own presence to one in need.

A family coming home from the hospital following a child's surgery finds a feast set out on their dining room table and a freezer full of prepared meals.

A couple facing unemployment, returning home from a day of job searching, finds a generous gift card to the local grocery store tucked into their mailbox.

A struggling single mom, raising a teenage son who lives to play basketball, learns that her son has been awarded a full scholarship to summer basketball camp by a mysterious benefactor.

When circumstances threaten to undo, others provide tangible signs of God's presence in the midst of the storm.

Sometimes the rescuer will be wearing a cross on a chain around her neck.

Sometimes he will be carrying a Bible.

Other times, God sends helpers with no identifying sign other than compassion, and sometimes dressed in the most unusual garb.

We may not recognize the one here on earth who by the direction and grace of God delivers us safely out of the storm, but we can be assured that help will come IF we ask for it IN FAITH and expect it - and it will come at times from the most unexpected of channels."

Remember you are never Alone and the tide always turns our way - by the Grace and Mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ!

Thursday, October 27, 2016

"...he sends rain on the just and the unjust alike." (Matthew 5:45, NLT)

In the Midst of the Storm

We all have opportunities to get upset and live stressed out.

The storms of life come to every person.

No matter how good a person you are, you're going to have some "rain" in your life.

When these storms come, a lot people use their faith to try to control their circumstances.

But I've found it's better to use my faith to control myself in the midst of my circumstances.

I know that if I can just remain stable in the storms of life and stay in peace, that's what allows God to act on my behalf.

God never said that we wouldn't have difficulties, but He did promise we could have peace in the midst of the storms.

When you face adversities, one of the most powerful things you can do is simply stay calm.

When you are at peace, you are displaying your faith in God.

By your actions, you're saying, "God, I know You're still on the throne. I know You're bigger than this problem."

So keep peace in the midst of your storms today.

Trust that He is working behind the scenes.

Keep your heart open to Him because soon He will deliver you!

A Prayer for Today "Father God, thank You for peace in the midst of the storms of life. I choose to hold my peace knowing that You are working behind the scenes. I trust You, I trust Your timing, and I trust that You are working everything together for my good because You love me in Jesus' name. Amen."

Tuesday, October 25, 2016

Sometimes, people get distracted by what they consider to be a disadvantage or weakness in their lives.

It may be something about their personality or looks that they don't like.

Or, maybe they've been through an unfair situation: a divorce, a bad business deal or a bad break.

We all have things that can feel like disadvantages; things that make it harder on us.

It may even be a physical handicap, and you can't get around like you used to.

But just because you have a "disadvantage," just because you've been through a tough time doesn't mean you're supposed to sit back and settle where you are.

God still has something great for you to do!

He wants to show Himself strong in and through you, and He's given you His Holy Spirit to equip you in this life.

Today let the Holy Spirit help you when you feel weak.

Let Him empower you with truth that will set you free.

Stay in faith and don't get negative toward yourself or your future.

Let God take what you think is a liability and turn it into an asset!

Let Him take what you think is a disadvantage and turn it around to be an advantage!

Remember, you are more than a conqueror today and every day because He is strong in you!

A Prayer for Today "Father, today I give You all that I am. I invite You into the weak places in my life so that You can turn them into strengths. Thank You for working in my life and filling me with faith and expectancy in Jesus' name. Amen."

Friday, October 21, 2016

"Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you." (1 Peter 5:7, NIV)

Cast Your Cares

God cares so much about you today.

Not only does He love and care about you, He cares about the things that concern you as well.

If you have concerns, worry or anxiety about something in your life today—finances, relationships, your job or anything else—know that your heavenly Father ALREADY has a plan to take care of those things for you.

It's a good plan, and He wants to show Himself strong on your behalf.

Scripture reminds us that the lilies of the field and the birds of the air are cared for, how much more will your heavenly Father take care of you?

Today, cast your anxiety on Him and trust that He is going to take care of you!

Refuse to dwell on your problems and don't allow them to steal your peace and joy any longer.

Instead, meditate on His Word and confess His promises over your life!

Cast your cares on Him and experience His peace, joy and blessing all the days of your life!

A Prayer for Today "Father, thank You for loving me and caring for me. I cast my cares on You and trust that You are working behind the scenes on my behalf. I set my mind on You and look for Your goodness in my life in Jesus' name. Amen."

Thursday, October 20, 2016

"Many, Lord my God, are the wonders you have done, the things you planned for us. None can compare with you; were I to speak and tell of your deeds, they would be too many to declare." (Psalm 40:5, NIV)

God has wonderful things prepared for your future!

Even though you might be facing some circumstances that seem unfair, or things aren't going the way you planned, God's good plan still remains.

Even when life isn't fair, God is always fair.

He is always working behind the scenes on your behalf to move you forward into the destiny that He has prepared for you.

Remember, in order to keep your life moving in the right direction, you need to keep your thoughts, heart and words moving in the right direction.

The best way to do this is by declaring His wonderful deeds!

When you start recounting all the ways God has blessed your life, just like the psalmist, you'll find that His goodness goes beyond what you could ever imagine.

Right now, take a moment and think about all the goodness in your life.

Declare His deeds and focus your thoughts on Him.

Keep your words and thoughts going in the right direction so you can keep moving forward into the abundant life He has promised you!

A Prayer for Today "Father, today I declare Your goodness and faithfulness in my life. Thank You for blessing me beyond my comprehension. You alone are worthy of all the praise, glory and honor. I bless You today and always in Jesus' name. Amen."

Wednesday, October 19, 2016

The Garden of Gethsemane has long been a strong influence in my faith and I often find myself reflecting on that evening before the Lord's agony and death on the cross for all of our sakes.

For me it is remarkable that the Son of God struggled so much with His role in the redemption of the world (justifiably I would say) that he sweat actual blood in his agony and prayer.

To me Gethsemane represents all of the things we experience that we just wish we could avoid and have taken away from us.

It represents all the tough and painful events that we all are inevitably going to undergo in our lives - things we don't understand and cannot fathom why we are being asked to endure them.

The lesson of Gethsemane to me is that we will have to go through some agonies in our lifetime. We are going to want and pray for them to be taken from us just as Jesus did so fervently that evening in the Garden.

But guess what, if God did not spare His own Son what he had to endure in order to save all of us, we too will be made to endure some challenges and storms that we clearly don't want and wish we could avoid.

We need to get through the night.

We need to get through the storm.

As Jesus did that fateful night, after praying we must accept the Garden and TRUST that God will bring us through whatever storm he has us experience.

And as we saw with Jesus and Gethsemane, the Lord will NEVER make us endure these storms alone.

He sent an angel to comfort Jesus as He struggled with the "chalice" in front of Him and gave him the Strength and Trust to carry on in the grand scheme He had planned for our salvation.

And the result is all the many gifts and blessings we have been given today!

Stay Strong and Persevere! :)

"When I am in need of peace, I join Jesus on his knees in the garden of Gethsemane.

In the midst of his own violent storm, about to be seized by Roman authorities, Jesus pauses to pray.

Sometimes it takes a lot of sweat, tears, and agony to get to the point of peace, but prayer is what leads us there, just as it led our Lord.

This glimpse of Jesus praying in the storm is reminiscent of Martin Luther's own insistence:

"I have so much to do that I shall spend the first three hours in prayer."

For Jesus, there wasn't any strategizing to be done with the disciples that was more important than prayer, especially as storm clouds gathered.

What makes this scene an unlikely source of comfort is that Jesus does drown, in a manner of speaking.

It is neither a story of heroic rescue nor of rains that suddenly cease.

In the garden, however, Jesus' prayer is still a source of comfort to me.

There, he prays a prayer of relinquishment, offering,

"Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done" (Luke 22:42).

That THIS was the prayer of Jesus when thunder clapped and winds roared around him, gives me peace to join him in the same prayer."

Tuesday, October 18, 2016

I apologize in advance for the length of this post but I truly hope you can soldier through it (and if not perhaps you can table it for when you have a few extra minutes) as I believe it carries a powerful message that will truly resonate strongly with a lot of us as we navigate this journey of life on earth!

Stay Strong, Trust and Enjoy! :)

"Bouncing across raging seas, bent to our knees and clinging for safety, is where we learn to pray.

Ask Noah, adrift on the swells of the diluvian sea.

Ask Jonah, tossed about on the Mediterranean.

Ask the disciples, taking on water on the Sea of Galilee.

Ask Paul, weathering perilous storms on voyage after voyage.

The storm you're facing may be financial, when you find yourself caught up in a Category 4 hurricane that sweeps over the economy like Katrina over the Gulf Coast.

Get your STAY STRONG T-SHIRT!!

These ten great inspirational sayings about life come from diverse cultures and times. These sayings of inspiration represent the thread of enlightenment and compassion that has always run through the greatest among us, and are, to me, the best of the best.

This above all, to thine own self be true.- William Shakespeare

Everything has beauty, but not everyone sees it.- Confucius

Happiness depends upon ourselves.- Aristotle

A good traveler has no fixed plans, and is not intent on arriving.- Lao Tsu

If you want others to be happy, practice compassion. If you want to be happy, practice compassion.- Tenzin Gyatso, the 14th Dalai Lama

All things share the same breath - the beast, the tree, the man... the air shares its spirit with all the life it supports.- Chief Seattle

Every child comes with the message that God is not yet discouraged of man.- Rabindranath Tagore

Lord, make me an instrument of thy peace.- St Francis of Assisi

There are no facts, only interpretations.- Friedrich Nietzsche

There are only two ways to live your life. One is as though nothing is a miracle. The other is as though everything is a miracle.- Albert Einstein

Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter.- Martin Luther King, Jr.

Life is no brief candle to me. It is a sort of splendid torch which I have got a hold of for the moment, and I want to make it burn as brightly as possible before handing it on to future generations.- George Bernard Shaw

We must be willing to get rid of the life we've planned,so as to have the life that is waiting for us. The old skin has to be shed before the new one can come.- Joseph Campbell

The cave you fear to enter holds the treasure you seek.- Joseph Campbell

Life is either a daring adventure or nothing.- Helen Keller

Life is an exciting business, and most exciting when it is lived for others.- Helen Keller

Life is a succession of lessons which must be lived to be understood.- Helen Keller

Life may not be the party we hoped for, but while we are here we might as well dance. - Anonymous

Life is really simple, but we insist on making it complicated.- Confucius

Nothing in life is to be feared, it is only to be understood. Now is the time to understand more, so that we may fear less.- Marie Curie

Life is a long lesson in humility.- James M. Barrie

Believe that life is worth living and your belief will help create the fact.- William James

Life is what happens while you are busy making other plans.- John Lennon

No one knows what he can do until he tries.- Publilius Syrus

As we light a path for others, we naturally light our own way.- Mary Anne Radmacher

There are no facts, only interpretations.- Friedrich Nietzsche

The purpose of our lives is to be happy.- Tenzin Gyatso, the 14th Dalai Lama

I slept and dreamt that life was joy. I awoke and saw that life was service. I acted and behold, service was joy.- Rabindranath Tagore

To go against the dominant thinking of your friends, of most of the people you see every day, is perhaps the most difficult act of heroism you can perform.- Theodore H. White

Life is not about waiting for the storms to pass... It's about learning how to dance in the rain.- Vivian Green

I love you not only for what you are, but for what I am when I am with you.I love you not only for what you have made of yourself, but for what you are making of me. I love you for that part of me you bring out.- Roy Croft

I love you when you bow in your mosque, kneel in your temple, pray in your church. For you and I are sons of one religion, and it is the Spirit.- Kahlil Gibran

Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that.Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.- Martin Luther King, Jr.

Where there is great love there are always miracles.- Willa Cather

Lord, grant that I might not so much seek to be loved as to love.- St. Francis of Assisi